Maldives Customs Service has seized more than three kilograms of synthetic cathinones in two interceptions of postal and courier packages.
On 31 October, officers found 1,030 grams of the substance concealed in a courier package. On 29 October, a separate postal shipment yielded 2,123 grams. The combined total is 3,153 grams.
Customs said both packages were flagged during inspection after suspicions that narcotics had been hidden inside them. Further examination confirmed the presence of the drugs, commonly referred to as party drugs or "meow meow".
No arrests have been publicly confirmed in connection with these specific seizures. Customs continues to intercept attempts to smuggle narcotics through air cargo, post and courier services.
The seizures come amid ongoing efforts to combat drug trafficking. Recent amendments to the Drugs Act provide for the death penalty in cases involving large quantities of certain narcotics, subject to a unanimous Supreme Court verdict.
Authorities have urged the public to remain alert to suspicious packages and have intensified screening at Velana International Airport and postal facilities.
